Skill training, employment for youth at core of Himayat: Aijaz Asad
JAMMU: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today reviewed the performance of Project Implementation Agencies (PIAs) under the Himayat 2.0 programme and emphasized expediting skill training and employment opportunities for the youth.
Chairing a review meeting at Panchayat Bhawan, here, the Secretary directed PIAs to enhance their performance and ensure timely achievement of targets. While appreciating agencies that have shown commendable results, he issued a stern warning to non-performing PIAs, asserting that no compromise would be made when it comes to the future of the youth.
He informed that under the Action Plan for FY 2025–26, the Apex Committee has approved 13 projects with a training target of 2,248 candidates, against which 1,365 candidates have already been enrolled so far.
The Secretary reviewed district-wise progress of training centres operational in Srinagar, Pulwama, Baramulla, Bandipora, Doda, Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Rajouri, Udhampur, Poonch and other locations. He noted that various skill trades, including Office Assistant, Retail Sales Assistant, General Duty Assistant, Supply Chain Executive, Front Office Assistant, Multi-Skill Technician and F&B Service Assistant, are currently being imparted through approved PIAs.
Aijaz Asad directed that projects would be withdrawn from non-performing PIAs. He added that the training process would be closely monitored and warned that persistent non-performance could invite disciplinary action, including blacklisting.
The Secretary assured PIAs that all genuine grievances would be addressed and that the department is extending full cooperation. However, he emphasized that improved outcomes are expected.
He directed the Chief Operating Officer, Himayat, Rajneesh Gupta, to conduct field visits and inspections of training centres. He further stated that Deputy Commissioners would also inspect centres in their respective districts to assess the quality of training, facilities and infrastructure. He underscored the programme’s significance for youth who have had to discontinue their education, stating that skill development linked with employment is vital for their socio-economic upliftment. He added that the programme would be reviewed regularly at all levels and cautioned PIAs against any form of negligence. Going forward, only those PIAs that successfully achieve targets under the first phase of DDU-GKY 2.0 within stipulated timelines will be entrusted with additional work, with further targets being strictly performance-based.
The meeting was attended by COO Himayat Rajneesh Gupta, Project Manager (F&PE) Sajad Chowdhary, senior officers of the department and representatives of various Project Implementation Agencies.